The most common type of air conditioning system is the split system, which puts the air handler inside the home and the condenser and compressor outside the home. The technology used for these systems has not changed dramatically for decades, and different manufacturers make largely identical products. So when you're shopping for an air conditioner, consider efficiency as indicated by the SEER, manufacturer reputation and reliability, the size of the unit, any government rebates, and contractor expertise. The best place to buy a split system air conditioner is from a trusted HVAC (Heating, ventilating and air conditioning) contractor. Many work with a specific brand of equipment, but some install several different brands. Be sure the contractor is certified to install the brand you choose. For example, cheaper Goodman units (including Goodman, Janitrol, Amana) have high repair rates, but don't require certification from installers. Often problems are related to faulty installation rather than product.

Trane and Bryant are well known names, but GE and Westinghouse make comparable products, and may price aggressively or offer great warranties to compete. For a standard split system air conditioner (between 13 and 15 SEER rating), you can expect to pay about $3,000 for the equipment. Special installation or ductwork may add another $3,000. Larger capacity systems are costlier. Installed split system heat pumps (both air conditioning and heating) cost about $5,500 for standard SEER. High efficiency air conditioners, between 16 and 18 SEER, usually run about $500 more, and ultra high efficiency (19 to 23 SEER) will add an additional $500 or so to the final cost. Many experts agree that the extra cost for ultra high efficiency does not pay off. Be sure your contractor uses "Manual J" calculations in figuring the size of air conditioning unit needed for your home. If you like to have the "best of the best," then you may want an ultra high efficiency air conditioner.

Otherwise standard or high efficiency is adequate.bjs ac units The accessory most often purchased for a split system is an extended warranty, either on the equipment or on the service.ac unit working but no cold air Depending on how long you plan to live in the home, a service contract can be a good idea, but don't buy into it without comparing costs. air conditioning unit outside fan not workingIt may save you money on discounted repairs. Look for air conditioner warranties that cover the labor involved in repairs. There aren't many, but you can find them. This could represent a significant savings. The standard warranty is ten years on the compressor, five years on all other parts, and no labor costs covered. Some installers will give you a year's labor guarantee;

shop around before you buy. Don't fall for the "bigger is better" claim when it comes to air conditioners. The right size is most cost-effective and comfortable for your home. Unscrupulous contractors will sell oversized units, costing the homeowner both initially and throughout the life of the system. They are inefficient and cycle off and on frequently. A properly sized system will be on most of the time in very hot weather. Avoid calling the biggest contractor in town -- you'll pay for the name recognition. Ask friends for references, and you'll often find smaller contractors who are reliable and fair.Mini Split Air Conditioners With our ductless ac ratings, you can cut through all the sales hype and find value. We have searched the manufacturers' information and, by using our air conditioner repair experience, created our unique system of ratings. It truly is like taking a repairman with you while you shop! Our top pick is the dealers The Daikin MXS series offers the best multi-zone units for up to four zones while the VRV III units can serve up to six or eight different zones.

The indoor units are available in cassette, ceiling, ducted, and console units as well as high wall units. This brand has a "HOME LEAVE" feature that can set the temperature three to five degrees higher in cooling mode or lower in the heating mode for when you are not home. They also have an "INTELLIGENT EYE" feature where an infrared sensor will set back the temperature when you leave the room for more than twenty minutes. Both of those features can provide you with significant energy savings and the units are backed by a good warranty. We continue our ductless ac ratings with an alphabetical list of manufacturers and reviews of their products. You can browse our listings or, if you are searching for a specific brand, you can enter its name in the search box above. Premium Efficiency 12,000 BTU (1 Ton) Ductless (Duct Free) Mini Split Air Conditioner with Inverter, Heat, Remote 115VSave 25% on select GREE Air Conditioners! Compact, Energy Star system is ductless, efficient & economical

The NEO is a premium efficiency 12,000 BTU ductless mini-split system that excels at single zone applications. Don’t be fooled by its compact design – for quiet comfort and attractive appearance, NEO’s high-wall, duct-free system is hard to beat. These highly efficient, economical 115-volt heat pump systems pay for themselves in energy savings. The NEO outdoor section is powered by a twin-rotary compressor with GREE’s DC inverter technology. This inverter technology with eco-friendly R-410a refrigerant saves energy, reduces outdoor noise and keeps room temperature steady by eliminating the constant starts and stops of conventional systems. A universal piping assembly/line-set (sold separately) is required for installation – be sure to select the appropriate size. Designed to cool and heat spaces as large as 400 sq. ft. Offers 12,000 BTU cooling and 13,000 BTU heating for dependable climate control DC inverter technology reduces noise and minimizes stop/start

Premium efficiency unit merits Energy Star distinction for modest electricity consumption 20 SEER rating: estimated annual cooling cost is $108 (based on 9¢/kWh and 2000 annual cooling hours) 1/4 in. x 3/8 in. universal piping assembly/line-set (sold separately) is required; This question is from Premium Efficiency 12,000 BTU (1 Ton) Ductless (Duct Free) Mini Split Air Conditioner with Inverter, Heat, Remote 115V2 does this product have everything it needs to be hooked up and working or do you have to buy extra parts This question is from Premium Efficiency 12,000 BTU (1 Ton) Ductless (Duct Free) Mini Split Air Conditioner with Inverter, Heat, Remote 115V1 Does Home Depot have people that can service the Gree mini split should it need servicing. This question is from Premium Efficiency 12,000 BTU (1 Ton) Ductless (Duct Free) Mini Split Air Conditioner with Inverter, Heat, Remote 115V1 what are the dimensions of the inside unit? This question is from Premium Efficiency 12,000 BTU (1 Ton) Ductless (Duct Free) Mini Split Air Conditioner with Inverter, Heat, Remote 115V1 can this be install over a window